OrthoLite released a midsole foam innovation to “elevate sustainability in the footwear industry.”
OrthoLite said its Ortholite Cirql is the “critical solution needed to achieve true circularity within the footwear industry and is the world’s first EVA plastic-free, recyclable, biodegradable, and industrially compostable foam. Powered by plants, Cirql offers a pure foam alternative to conventional plastics made from responsibly-sourced plants and biodegradable materials. The GMO-free, plant-based material used in Cirql is free from forever chemicals and manufactured through a zero-waste, chemical-free foaming process. The patented process ensures unmatched sustainability in a midsole that delivers on OrthoLite’s highest standards of performance, comfort, and sustainability.”
“At OrthoLite, operating sustainably has been central to our DNA since our inception 25 years ago, and Cirql represents our continued commitment to this effort and a natural extension of our mission and vision,” said Glenn Barrett, OrthoLite founder and CEO. “Worldwide footwear production has increased by over 20 percent since 2010 with no signs of slowing down. As an industry, the onus is on all of us to help mitigate our environmental impact on the planet. It’s going to take an industry-wide commitment and a concerted effort, and Cirql is a major step in that direction.”
“Containing no forever-chemicals or persistent microplastics, at the end of its life cycle, Cirql can be industrially composted, making it the first soil-to-soil solution for footwear foam. Cirql effectively biodegrades back into nutrient-rich soil compost. Cirql foam is also able to be depolymerized and recycled for reuse. Patented worldwide and with a commitment to full transparency and third-party validation. Cirql has undergone extensive third-party testing and analysis to include a complete Life Cycle IVL Assessment and is Certified Industrial Compostable (Din Certco), REACH-certified (EU) and USDA Certified Bio Preferred, RSL compliant (Intertek), certified GMO-free, certified Vegan and Hypoallergenic,” said Ortholite.
“Cirql is headquartered in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, and is led by General Manager and Cirql Vice President Matt Smith. With more than 21 years of international experience in the footwear industry, Smith has built the Cirql division leading production direction and establishing and managing partner relationships. Together with the Cirql team, he also facilitates the ongoing support and education required on the Cirql technologies, including product development, innovation and R&D,” continued Ortholite.
“With its global reach and impact, Cirql technology sets a new standard in truly sustainable footwear,” said Smith. “Our flagship factory, the Cirql Center of Excellence, is a model for the way we resource factories to evolve toward a zero-waste production process and end of life product solutions. Our model can be used as a template for footwear brands and their Tier 1 factory partners to move away from traditional foam materials and processes and into a new era for sustainable footwear manufacturing.”
For more product information, go here.
